The NFL is a high-stakes game, and nowhere is that more evident than with the quarterbacks. These field generals hold the keys to offensive success, and teams are willing to break the bank to secure their services. In 2024, the Top 10 Highest Paid NFL QBs are a fascinating group, showcasing a blend of established veterans and rising young stars. This article delves into their lucrative contracts, analyzes their on-field performance, and explores the ever-evolving landscape of quarterback salaries in the league.
1. Joe Burrow: The Bengal’s Golden Ticket ($55 Million Average Annual Value (AAV))
Joe Burrow, the charismatic leader of the Cincinnati Bengals, reigns supreme as the Top 10 Highest Paid NFL QB in 2024. Following his Super Bowl run in his second season, Burrow secured a record-breaking five-year, $275 million extension with the Bengals. This translates to a staggering $55 million AAV, solidifying his place as the league’s highest-paid player. Burrow’s electrifying play and leadership have transformed the Bengals into a perennial contender, making the hefty investment a calculated gamble for the franchise.
2. Jared Goff: From Rams Castoff to Lions’ King ($53 Million AAV)
Jared Goff’s journey to becoming the second-highest paid NFL QB in 2024 is a testament to perseverance. After leading the Los Angeles Rams to a Super Bowl victory, Goff found himself traded to the Detroit Lions. Despite initial skepticism, Goff silenced doubters with a stellar 2023 season. This performance earned him a lucrative four-year, $212 million contract extension with the Lions, boasting a $53 million AAV. Goff’s resurgence and the Lions’ commitment to building around him signal a new chapter in Detroit, with hopes of replicating Goff’s past championship success.
3. Justin Herbert: The Bolts’ Big-Armed Prodigy ($52.5 Million AAV)
Justin Herbert, the young gunslinger of the Los Angeles Chargers, has taken the league by storm with his cannon arm and dynamic playmaking ability. In 2023, Herbert secured a well-deserved five-year, $262.5 million extension with the Chargers, locking him in at a cool $52.5 million AAV. Herbert’s electrifying presence and sky-high potential make him a cornerstone for the Chargers’ offense, with expectations of challenging for the AFC crown in the years to come.
4. Lamar Jackson: Baltimore’s Dual-Threat Enigma ($52 Million AAV)
Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens’ dynamic dual-threat quarterback, remains a unique force in the NFL. Jackson’s potent combination of passing and rushing prowess has redefined the quarterback position. In 2023, Jackson signed a five-year, $260 million extension with the Ravens, securing a $52 million AAV. While questions linger about his long-term durability and passing development, Jackson’s electrifying style and championship aspirations make him a valuable asset to the Ravens.
5. Jalen Hurts: Leading the Eagles’ Charge ($51 Million AAV)
Jalen Hurts, the Philadelphia Eagles’ do-it-all quarterback, has emerged as a leader with a winning mentality. After a successful 2023 season, Hurts inked a five-year, $255 million contract extension with the Eagles, solidifying his position as their franchise quarterback. Hurts’ $51 million AAV reflects his development as a passer while maintaining his rushing prowess. With a strong supporting cast around him, Hurts aims to take the Eagles back to Super Bowl glory.
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6. Deshaun Watson: A Second Chance in Cleveland ($46 Million Base Salary)
Deshaun Watson’s situation is unique among the Top 10 Highest Paid NFL QBs. Despite facing off-field controversies, Watson landed a fully guaranteed five-year, $230 million contract with the Cleveland Browns. While his base salary sits at $46 million, the guaranteed nature of the deal provides him with financial security. Watson’s on-field talent is undeniable, but his ability to overcome the off-field baggage and lead the Browns to success remains to be seen.
7. Josh Allen: Buffalo’s Strong-Armed Signal Caller ($43 Million AAV)
Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills’ physical marvel, continues to be a force to be reckoned with. His cannon arm, combined with his dangerous mobility, makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. While not reaching the lofty heights of the top five earners, Allen secured a lucrative six-year, $258 million contract extension with the Bills in 2022, locking him in at a $43 million AAV. Allen’s development as a passer has complemented his already impressive physical tools, making him a legitimate contender for the MVP award each season. Under his leadership, the Bills remain one of the top contenders in the AFC, with aspirations of hoisting the Lombardi trophy.
8. Kirk Cousins: The Falcons’ Gamble on Experience ($45 Million AAV)
Kirk Cousins, a veteran quarterback known for his accuracy and consistency, embarks on a new chapter with the Atlanta Falcons. After years with the Minnesota Vikings, Cousins signed a three-year, $135 million contract with the Falcons. This translates to a $45 million AAV, making him one of the league’s highest-paid quarterbacks despite lacking a recent Super Bowl run. Cousins’ presence provides stability and leadership for a young Falcons team, but questions remain about his ability to elevate the team to championship contender status.
9. Patrick Mahomes: Still Elite, But Not the Top Earner Anymore ($45 Million AAV)
Patrick Mahomes, the reigning Super Bowl MVP with the Kansas City Chiefs, finds himself surprisingly outside the top five of the Top 10 Highest Paid NFL QBs. While his talent remains undeniable, Mahomes’ massive 10-year, $450 million contract signed in 2020 translates to a “down year” in AAV compared to the new deals being handed out. However, a strategic restructure in 2023 bumped his annual earnings to $52.65 million through the 2026 season. Mahomes remains the face of the NFL and a generational talent. Despite a slight dip in AAV, his impact on the game and the Chiefs’ championship aspirations remain as strong as ever.
10. Kyler Murray: A Dual-Threat Spark Plug in Arizona ($46.1 Million AAV)
Kyler Murray, the electrifying quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, rounds out the Top 10 Highest Paid NFL QBs in 2024. Murray’s dynamic playmaking ability, both through the air and on the ground, makes him a constant threat for opposing defenses. In 2023, Murray secured a lucrative five-year, $230.5 million extension with the Cardinals, locking him in at a $46.1 million AAV. While Murray’s production has been impressive, questions linger about his size and durability. The Cardinals are betting on his unique talents and leadership to propel them to the next level, with Murray aiming to silence doubters and lead Arizona to a Super Bowl appearance.
Conclusion
The Top 10 Highest Paid NFL QBs in 2024 represent a fascinating microcosm of the league’s ever-evolving landscape. These quarterbacks not only lead their teams on the field but also serve as the faces of their franchises. Their lucrative contracts reflect the immense value they bring to their teams, both in terms of wins and marketing potential. As the salary cap continues to rise, it will be interesting to see how high these quarterback contracts can climb in the years to come. One thing is certain: the quarterback position remains the most crucial in the NFL, and teams are willing to pay top dollar to secure the services of an elite signal caller.
